Research Vessel Operations Manager

Job Posting Title: Research Vessel Operations Manager Hiring Department: Marine Science Institute Position Open To: All Applicants Weekly Scheduled Hours: 40 FLSA Status: Exempt from FLSA Earliest Start Date: Immediately Position Duration: Expected to Continue Location: PORT ARANSAS, TX Job Details: Purpose This position oversees and manages all activities related to the new 78-foot research vessel at the University of Texas at Austin, the R/V Katy, and the small boat fleet that supports education and research at UTMSI. This position directs personnel in the day-to-day operations and maintenance of UTMSI's small-boat fleet and manages planning to ensure the department's operational efficiency. Responsibilities Directs and manages all activities within UTMSI Vessel Operations, including oversight of the research vessel fleet and maintenance of UTMSI’s small/trailerable vessels. Works with the Assistant Director of Business Operations at UTMSI to manage all financial and administrative tasks for the Vessel Operations service center, including scheduling vessels in the UT-MSI reservation system, Momentus; establishing pricing structures; responding to inquiries; confirming reservations; managing and collecting contracts and required insurance documentation; and adding service orders to ensure invoicing is ready for Finance and Administrative staff. Tasks also included tracking and monitoring expenses and revenue; reviewing charter rates; maintaining payroll time records for vessel-based personnel; purchasing materials for vessel operations in coordination with the UTMSI Buyer; coordinating maintenance and repairs; fueling; and coordinating annual haul-outs and contracted shipyard maintenance. Provides the Assistant Director of Business Operations with reports and financial data as needed. Oversees departmental budget expenditures and participates in budget development in coordination with the Assistant Director of Business Operations. Supervises vessel captains and operations personnel, including mates, deckhands, marine technicians, the Outboard Mechanic, and Boat Operator. Approves timesheets and time-off requests, conducts annual performance reviews, assigns duties, and manages staffing and employee performance. Ensures vessel personnel meet applicable USCG licensing and other regulatory requirements while maintaining operational efficiency. Ensures the UTMSI Vessel Fleet and personnel maintain compliance with the United States Coast Guard, the American Bureau of Shipping, federal and state laws, and university/department policies. Coordinates with the Assistant Director of Facilities for hurricane preparedness. Develops and manages safety programs for UTMSI Vessel Operations, including regular safety inspections, drills, and emergency-preparedness training for vessel personnel; serves as the primary point of contact for emergency response involving the UTMSI research vessel. Serves as the primary point of contact for UTMSI personnel, external researchers, and other vessel users regarding ship scheduling, cruise planning, and vessel capabilities, providing responsive customer service to support research and educational objectives. Provides the UTMSI Director with reports on vessel operations status, recommends improvements to operational efficiency, and represents the vessel operations unit at routine administrative meetings. Develops and reviews departmental policies related to the safe and effective use of UTMSI vessels. Performs other duties as assigned. Oversees the purchase and maintenance of scientific equipment for the research vessel in coordination with UTMSI Scientific Staff. Supervisory Responsibilities: Manages and supervises all UTMSI Vessel Operations full-time employees and seasonal deckhands. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in a business-related field from a four-year college or university and at least five years’ experience in management or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education a…

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